Work/Life Training and Education
Work/Life offers workshops on a variety of issues either by request from departments or by open enrollment in classes. Topics include, but are not limited to: caregiving for children and teenagers, self-compassion for caregivers, relaxation strategies, and financial literacy.
The regular practice of mindfulness meditation has a demonstrable impact on psychological and physical health, improving mood, decreasing stress, strengthening the immune system, and supporting sleep.
Be Well at Work Employee Assistance and Work/Life invite faculty and staff to join us for a monthly meditation group which will offer a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation during the work day. Each month will focus on a beneficial intention to guide us.
No registration is required and no prior experience with meditation is necessary. All are welcome.
Virtually:
- First Wednesday of the month at 12:15 - 12:45 pm
- Third Thursday of the month at 2 pm - 2:20 pm
If you would like these sessions added to your bCal for scheduling notifications and the Zoom link, please email kpatchell@berkeley.edu.
For requests: Please contact kpatchell@berkeley.edu if you would like to request a 10, 20, or 30-minute mindful meditation for your department.
ENROLLMENT
UC Berkeley and LBNL Faculty, Staff, Visiting Scholars, and Postdocs:
- Click on the “enroll here” hyperlink to take you to the UCB Learning Center.
- Enter your CalNet Passphrase.
- Click "Submit."
Spring 2026 Parenting Workshops
Understanding And Responding to Toddler Tantrums
Thursday, February 26th; Noon – 1 pm via Zoom
Speaker: Karen Patchell, MA, Be Well at Work Work/Life Lead
Whether a child’s behavior during a tantrum is to hit, cry, kick or scream, these emotionally turbulent moments can cause caregivers to feel overwhelm, guilt, sadness, or anger. To remain calm and patient while supporting a child in the midst of a tantrum, we must first understand the biological processes at play. Only then can we focus on responding and supporting children to eliminate the big emotions they are feeling. In this workshop we will: - Learn about the different types of tantrums - Look at what happens in the body when a child is having a tantrum - Discuss why they occur and what can cause them - Identify ways of responding and being present to support your child during a tantrum - And how tantrums can actually connect you with your child.
Easing into Gratitude: Cultivating Moments of Appreciation
Wednesday, April 1st; Noon - 1 pm via Zoom
Speaker: Karen Patchell, MA, Be Well at Work Work/Life Lead
Gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform how we navigate our lives, especially during challenging times. In this workshop, we will explore the ways in which we can approach gratitude in our daily routines without engaging in toxic positivity or overwhelm. Through guided exercises and reflections, we’ll look at how even the smallest of shifts in perspective can lead to increased motivations, connection, and fulfillment.
Transitioning Back After Baby Bonding Leave
Tuesday, April 28th, Noon - 1 pm, via Zoom
Speaker: Karen Patchell, Mary Kelly, Greg Ryan, Julie Resnik
For both birth and non-birth parents, the transition back to work after baby bonding leave can feel overwhelming. It can be filled with a vast array of emotions, concerns, and limitations, not to mention demanding and conflicting schedules.
Join us for this panel discussion which focuses on understanding both positive and negative emotions related to this transition, how to establish boundaries at work, benefits and accommodations available to working parents, ergonomic strategies for multiple workstations, and self-care resources to help ease the physical and mental pressure associated with working while caregiving.
Spring 2026 Financial Workshops
Debt Management
Tuesday, February 10th, Noon - 1:30 pm via MS Teams
Speaker: Valerie Torres, VP, Financial Wellness Program Manager
Learn common reasons why people find themselves in debt and the most common types of debt. Describes the value of using debt management strategies such as loan consolidation, budgeting, and debt management plans. Finally, participants will compare various debt management solutions and create a personal plan about how to manage their debt.
529 College Saving Plans
Tuesday, February 24th, Noon - 1:30 pm, via Zoom
Speaker: James Palen, TIAA Tuition Financing
How you save and plan for your loved one’s education goals matters. The way you save and allocate for college savings dictates the investments you have access to, the tax status of your funds for education expenses, and even has an impact on the needs-based financial aid your loved one is eligible to receive. Join us for a college savings workshop to help you better navigate the college savings arena. During this workshop, we will discuss:
- Paying for college “The basics”
- The cost of higher education Different ways to save
- Is ScholarShare 529 the right plan for you and your family
- Getting started Making the most of existing accounts (resources)
- The Matching Grant Program and CalKids Q&A
Preparing for Financial Emergencies
Tuesday, March 10th, Noon - 1 pm, via MS Teams
Speaker: Valerie Torres, VP, BMO Financial Wellness Program Manager/ Benefits Specialist
Are you fed up with the endless cycle of living paycheck to paycheck? Are you feeling suffocated by debt? In this eye-opening workshop,We will
share 23 ways you can put money back into your pocket and identify simple strategies you can implement immediately to eliminate your debt.
Your Health and Wealth
Optimizing Your Social Security Benefits
Thursday, April 9th, Noon - 1:30 pm, via Zoom
Speaker: Brad Hamada, CFed
With Social Security, the sheer volume of rules can overwhelm anyone. Incorporating these benefits into your broader financial strategy is crucial, yet often overlooked. Shockingly, nearly 96% of people claim their benefits incorrectly. Our solution is straightforward: we simplify the complexity, providing clear guidance to optimize your Social Security benefits. We'll ensure you make informed decisions that align with your overall financial goals, giving you peace of mind for the future.
Mortgages
Perinatal Support Group for Faculty and Staff
Beginning Oct. 8th from Noon - 1 pm via Zoom
Navigate early parenthood with support! Our virtual group for expectant parents and parents of 0-2 year olds offers a safe space and community for sharing, gaining insights and connection. Babies and non-birthing partners are always welcome.
Email kpatchell@berkeley.edu for bCal Scheduling and Zoom Link
Elder Care Training and Education
The Elder Care program offers monthly educational workshops and webinars on topics related to elder care and caregiver resilience. The workshops are presented by professionals and experienced caregivers. These workshops are open to current UC Berkeley and LBL employees and generally take place on a weekday from 12:10-1:30 pm.